Hendersonville – The Hendersonville Police Department in North Carolina has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first police department in the state to successfully meet the criteria for the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Trust Building Campaign. This initiative, initiated by the IACP, the leading professional association for police leaders globally, focuses on strengthening trust and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
To participate in the Trust Building Campaign, police departments must commit to implementing 25 essential policies and best practices within a three-year period. Police Chief Blair Myhand was proud to announce the department’s accomplishment at the Hendersonville City Council meeting on March 7th by presenting the IACP Trust Building Campaign Certificate.
Chief Myhand emphasized the significance of having a structured foundation to build upon, stating that the completion of this pledge sets a significant precedent for the Hendersonville Police Department. He envisions that the officers will uphold the highest policing standards, paving the way for long-lasting positive change and trust within the community.
The decision to pledge the Trust Building Campaign stemmed from Chief Myhand’s belief that fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and community engagement is crucial for modern-day policing. The department initiated the application process in March 2023, ultimately solidifying policies, conducting assessments, and developing strategies within six key focus areas: bias-free policing, use of force, leadership and culture, recruitment, hiring, and retention, victim services, and community relations.
By successfully completing the Trust Building Campaign Pledge, the Hendersonville Police Department has taken significant steps to cultivate positive relationships between the police and the community. These efforts aim to enhance community-police partnerships, promote safe and effective interactions, prevent and reduce crime, and enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for all residents.
The IACP commends participating agencies for integrating the concepts of the pledge into their daily operations. Prioritizing trust-building leads to mutually beneficial relationships between community members and law enforcement, centered around shared visions, goals, and values. Strengthening trust within the community remains a crucial objective for law enforcement agencies.
For more details about the Trust Building Campaign, individuals can visit the IACP’s website at http://www.theiacp.org/iacp-trust-building-campaign.